York Distinguished Alumni 2025 & 2026
The following York graduates have been newly selected as York Distinguished Alumni and will be honored in a ceremony on Oct. 15, 2026 in The York High School Commons. Congratulations to
2025
Desiree Baron, Foreign Service Officer & Violinist, Class of 1982
Robert (Robb) Knuepfer, Attorney & Pastor, Class of 1970
Roberta Larson Duyff, Nutritionist & Author, Class of 1966
Julia Schmitt Healy, Artist & Educator, Class of 1965
2026
Bruce Karr, Para-Olympian,Class of 1955
Dr. Carl Landweh, Computer Scientist ,Cyber Security Specialist, Class of 1964
Bonnie Grabenhofer, Women's Rights Advocate & Consultant, Class of 1967
Jenny Cloud Riddle, Actress, Historical Story Teller & Speaking Coach, Class of 1982
Teft Smith, Visualization, VFX and Animation Supervisor, Class of 1994
Jenna Weglarz-Smith, Educator, Early Childhood Specialist, Class of 1996
Nominations for 2027 are open. The deadline is May 17, 2027
click here for more information and to nominate an alumnus
YDAP Program Honors York Alumni
In 2013, Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 launched the York Distinguished Alumni Program. The Dukes of Distinction award honors exemplary York Community High School graduates who:
Display leadership characteristics through achievement of significant and/or extraordinary accomplishments or service
Have made an outstanding contribution to society
Serve as a positive influence while exemplifying the honored York traditions of teamwork and selflessness
Embody the ideals of YHS and School District 205, therefore bringing pride and prestige to the school, the District and the community
The exemplary alumni who receive the York Distinguished Alumni Award will raise self-expectation among the current students through their realization that these "Dukes of Distinction" once walked the halls of York High School and the streets of this community.
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